Venetian Plaster

“Venetian Plaster” is a decorative polished lime or resin plaster. It is also called “Decorative Stucco” or “Italian Plaster.” Some people refer to it as a “faux finish,” but real Venetian Plaster is actually plaster. True Venetian plaster is a mixture of aged slaked lime putty, sand, finely ground marble dust, and pigment applied with skill results in a warm effect reminiscent of Italy.

With the support of a trained professional,lime plasters can elevate the appearance of
a building and enable construction professionals to differentiate their work, recapture the tradition
of artisans from generations before, and
create art on the wall.

No two walls will look exactly the same. Pigment can be added to conventional or veneer plaster.

Both Venetian plaster and colored plaster are high-end alternatives to ordinary paint finishes or wall coverings. Plaster is a durable and long lasting surface.

The finishing treatment determines depth and sheen. Venetian plaster can be burnished to a glass-like, high gloss marble look. It can also have a smooth or rough matte finish or a distressed stone look.

Colored plaster is also polished with a trowel, and can be waxed or sealed for a shiny look. It is thicker than Venetian plaster.

Plaster can be tinted to any color. Popular color washes or pigments include terracotta, Provencal blue, ivory, and pale green for a Mediterranean look.

When applying Venetian plaster, the first layer is applied as a skim coat, which is then covered with translucent layers of plaster. A topcoat compatible with the plaster brand may be applied. This adds durability and moisture resistance desirable for bathrooms and traffic areas. A thin coat of bee’s wax may also be applied to achieve sheen and protection.

For both Venetian and colored plaster, finished surface of plaster is more durable than drywall, and will not knick. Even though it’s usually less than 1/8″ thick, it feels like a layer of stone. It is mold and mildew resistant. Once sealed, the colors will not fade.

Elias Plastering LLC always puts up a basecoat that provides a good surface before doing a Venetian plaster finish. We do not install it right over sheetrock due to concerns that it screws can pop out and tapes could lift.

Please contact Elias Plastering LLC if you’d like a quote for applying Venetian plaster to new or existing construction.

Environmentally Friendly

Our products are naturally high in pH, lime finishes act as an anti-bacterial surface, neutralizing the development of organic substances such as mold and fungus.
Non-toxic and green, our lime plasters are ideal for interiors or exteriors. A breathable system, our lime plasters allow water vapor to permeate freely so moisture evaporates quickly, unlike acrylic finishes which can trap moisture inside the wall.